May Declared Tick-borne Disease Awareness Month

The month of May 2017 has been proclaimed by Governor Hogan as Tick-borne Disease Awareness Month. Lyme disease, one of many tick-borne diseases, is the most common vector-borne disease in America. It is the fourth most common communicable disease reported in the state of Maryland, and over 1,700 Lyme disease cases were reported in 2015. With Garrett County having many outdoor recreational activities and work environments, it is residents are encouraged to protect themselves, their children, and their pets against tick-borne diseases.

Tick-borne diseases are caused by an infectious bacteria. The bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi is carried in black-legged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks, and transferred by animals such as mice, deer, squirrels, rabbits, birds, and others. Ticks tend to stay near the ground in wooded areas and can only attach to a host by direct contact. Ticks do not have the ability to jump or fly onto the host. It is important for pet owners to be vigilant of potential tick presence as cats and dogs may carry live ticks indoors.  In order to prevent tick-borne disease it is recommended to wear repellent when outdoors, treat dogs and cats for ticks as recommended by a veterinarian, check for ticks daily, and shower soon after being outdoors.

Contact the Garrett County Health Department at 301-334-7760 for more Information related to tick-borne disease prevention, treatment, and proper removal of ticks.

For Immediate Release:  May 2, 2017
Contact Person: Bryce A. Manges L.E.H.S., 301-334-7760